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US criticises Russia over decision to grant Snowden asylum

Updated
August 02, 2013 22:56:00

The United States has criticised Russia for its decision to grant temporary asylum to the former CIA intelligence contractor, Edward Snowden, who is wanted for exposing the U.S. Government's global phone and internet surveillance operation.

EMMA ALBERICI: The United States has criticised Moscow over its decision to granted Ed Snowden temporary asylum.

The former CIA employee will be able to stay in Russia for at least a year while he fights extradition to the US.

He's wanted for exposing the US Government's huge phone and internet surveillance program.

JAY CARNEY, WHITE HOUSE SPOKESMAN: We are extremely disappointed that the Russian government would take this step, despite our very clear and lawful request in public and in private to have Mr Snowden expelled to the United States to face the charges against him.

Mr Snowden is not a whistleblower. He is accused of leaking classified information and has been charged with three felony counts and he should be returned to the United States as soon as possible where he will be accorded full due process and protections.

EMMA ALBERICI: Ed Snowden's lawyer says he can't disclose where the 30-year-old will be staying.

ANATOLY KUCHERENA, LAWYER, MOSCOW (TRANSLATED): Regarding his place of residence, he will choose it himself. He can live both at a hotel and at a rented flat. But because he is now the most persecuted man on Earth he will take into account security aspects as well.

EMMA ALBERICI: Ed Snowden's father has praised the Russian government's decision as a noble act and is making plans to visit his son in the near future.